got 0 tatoos or piercings so cant speak to those but gobs and gobs of scars. i am not ashamed of them and i dont think they are artistic in the least but they represent (to me, as i consider other's observation of them) as symbols of my suffering. at the same time, i feel narcissitic in having that attitude. the reality for me is the very dangerous level of self-abuse that i have reached is destined to land me in the hospital. the urges for the past 90+ days since i stabbed myself repeatedly are overcome with the trauma of my family's worry. and i absolutely abhor involuntary (or any) committment in locked psych unit. it is hard to imagine succumbing to the frequent urges which is seems to provide some resolution for me. peace to all!